Visitor information

Welcome to England's only true mountain forest

Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play.

Set within the Lake District, a World Heritage Site, Whinlatter has unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. It is also home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trails in the Lake District. 

The Lakes are a dramatic and unique landscape which has been formed through man’s activities, such as forestry and land management. This landscape has inspired many of the world’s greatest artists, writers and thinkers.

Forest event
Monday 6 October
7pm to 10pm
Meet at Noble Knott car park

The full Hunters' moon, is named for the hunting our ancestors would have done at this time of year, preparing for the winter months ahead. This is the time to welcome the darker...

Forest event
Wednesday 5 November
7pm to 10pm
Meet at Noble Knott car park

The full Beaver moon in Taurus is named for the beavers busily preparing for the winter months ahead. It is a reminder for us to do the same physically and mentally, aligning to...

Forest event
22 November
10am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm

Join photographer Steve Blake for a 2-hour taster session.

Head into the forest and visit a series of nearby locations to explore different elements and techniques of landscape...

Forest event
Wednesday 3 December
7pm to 10pm
Meet at Noble Knott car park

The full Cold moon in Gemini illuminates our deepest desires with her magical bright light. Whilst the world is at rest, our dreams for the year ahead are beginning to form in...

Food and drink

A couple enjoying coffee and cake at a wooden table with a forest visible through the window behind them

Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter

Whether you fancy a hot drink to start your visit, a warming meal or snack after your walk or ride or even a Sunday dinner then Cafe Ambio is the place to be! With a wide range of mouth-watering dishes, a warm and welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff who are always happy to help be sure to pop in next time you visit.

Whether you've just bought your first bike, or you're looking for your next adrenaline fix, Whinlatter Forest puts the mountain back into biking, with climbs to amazing views and...

Bond with your pooch by taking on dog-tastic challenges together, solve crossword clues and have lots of fun along the way – with everyone’s favourite dog and owner duo for company...

Stunning scenery, a higher calorie burn and increased mental wellbeing are just a few things to look forward to when you run in England's only true mountain forest.

Supported by...

Set off with a hop and twirl as you join Stick Man on his forest adventure. 

The interactive family trail follows Stick Man on his journey as he tries to get back to the family tree...

Our work

A view of farm pasture in front of a wooded mountain vista

Cattle grazing

We plan to introduce a small herd of cattle to the south-western quarter of Whinlatter Forest in June 2025.

Nearby forests

Dodd Wood from Bassenthwaite Lake

Dodd Wood is a fantastic place to get some stunning views of the northern Lake District. The network of walking trails will take you deep into the woodland and walk to the top of...

View of forest and hills from Carron Crag trail at Grizedale

Breath-taking views, stunning artwork and endless forest trails, come and discover all that Grizedale has to offer!

Explore the forest on two wheels, foot or horse back and keep...

A view from a mountain looking down a wooded valley

Lying on the north western edge of the Lake District National Park, Ennerdale is home to some of England’s most vibrant natural environments and one of the longest running wild...

View of Pillar from Blengdale Forest viewpoint

Discover a variety of outdoor experiences at Blengdale Forest, from a gentle walk up the valley of the River Bleng to a cycle ride around the forest roads. 

From the highest points...

Membership invitation - click to find out more about membership
Volunteer with us invitation - click to discover volunteer opportunities across England